People don't realize that a snap military exercise is like 9 to 13k soldiers. Putin got 100k surrounding Ukraine, plus 140 ships out at sea headed to the Mediterranean and possibly the Black Sea, and he's still bringing in more troops and heavy artillery. The minimum he's going for is full regime change in Ukraine and maybe all out war with NATO in Europe if it gets to that point. This shyt is not ordinary for someone so pragmatic, feels like a maneuver from someone who KNOWS his time is coming to an end.
he knows the wolves are becoming embolden around him because of his Parkinson's, hes probably trying to give his successor enough clout to maintain order when he finally steps down. its a desperation move on his end and it really doesnt surprise me. all old leaders near the end make irrational decisions